Spiced Pumpkin Seed Clusters

These crunchy, flavorful pumpkin seed clusters are the perfect autumnal snack. They're easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time in the oven. The maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg give them a warm, inviting flavor, while the sea salt adds a touch of balance. They're perfect for munching on by themselves or adding to salads, yogurt, or oatmeal.

Pumpkin seeds have been a culinary staple for centuries, dating back to the ancient Aztecs and Mayans. These early civilizations roasted pumpkin seeds and used them as a thickener for soups and stews. Over time, pumpkin seeds became a popular snack food in Europe and North America. Today, they are often enjoyed as a salty snack or added to baked goods and salads.

Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups raw pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the pumpkin seeds are golden brown and crunchy.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before breaking into clusters.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Why It Works

• The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and helps to bind the pumpkin seeds together.
• The cinnamon and nutmeg give the pumpkin seeds a warm, autumnal flavor.
• The sea salt adds a touch of balance and helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Roasting the pumpkin seeds in the oven gives them a crunchy texture.